What do you think?
Rate this book
Sweet Potato Queens #9
Fat Is The New 30: The Sweet Potato Queens' Guide To Coping With (the crappy parts of) Life
The Sweet Potato Queens® are back and bawdier than ever in Southern belle extraordinaire Jill Conner Browne’s ninth edition of the hysterical series.
Having experienced pretty much ALL of the crappy parts of life, Browne feels it is her duty to render whatever assistance she can to her fellow sufferers — and she does so in her own inimitable fashion. Her father taught her there are very few situations in life that we really and truly cannot change, and it is up to us to figure out how to either make fun OUT of them — or make fun OF them. And fortunately for the rest of us, Browne is well equipped for both.
Including the exploits of the Queen contingent and her family, she delivers applicable tidbits like:
• Thinking or talking about watermelon can save any negative situation.
• If you get drunk in Scotland, you can’t have your cow with you.
• When sanity and reason fail, you can always cheerfully resort to ridicule.
• Denial means that every situation is perfectly perfect.
More fun than a Cracker Barrel full of monkeys, Fat Is the New 30 will change your life — or at least give you ideas for making fun of yourownself.
Having experienced pretty much ALL of the crappy parts of life, Browne feels it is her duty to render whatever assistance she can to her fellow sufferers — and she does so in her own inimitable fashion. Her father taught her there are very few situations in life that we really and truly cannot change, and it is up to us to figure out how to either make fun OUT of them — or make fun OF them. And fortunately for the rest of us, Browne is well equipped for both.
Including the exploits of the Queen contingent and her family, she delivers applicable tidbits like:
• Thinking or talking about watermelon can save any negative situation.
• If you get drunk in Scotland, you can’t have your cow with you.
• When sanity and reason fail, you can always cheerfully resort to ridicule.
• Denial means that every situation is perfectly perfect.
More fun than a Cracker Barrel full of monkeys, Fat Is the New 30 will change your life — or at least give you ideas for making fun of yourownself.
267 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 20, 2012
252 people are currently reading
707 people want to read
About the author
Jill Conner Browne
35 books327 followersJill Conner Browne is the multiple #1 New York Times bestselling author of nine Sweet Potato Queens® books and has created a global phenomenon--6,200 chapter groups in 37 countries--based upon her philosophy and world-view as recounted through these rollicking, raucous and riotously funny essays. Women and smart men understand that the bawdy, sassy, down-to-earth humor is simply the vehicle by which the greater message is conveyed--that is, one of self-reliance and empowerment, inspiring all to do what makes their hearts sing.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
April 3, 2012
My Review:
This book is definitely not along the lines of what I normally read, but I did enjoy reading it. It is filled with short little snippets from the Sweet Potato Queen's life that will absolutely keep you rolling. I've never read any of her books before. In fact, I've never even actually heard of her, but this book is filled with Southern real-life humor and story telling that absolutely kept me giggling and laughing out loud.
Reading this book is like visiting a comedy club. Each chapter is it's own little series of absolutely hilarious monologues. There are stories that range from the self-denial of the people of Walmart, to the idiocy of alligator hunting (which the Sweet Potato Queen herself participated in), to the Divorce Porch (one of those hubby projects that never did seem to get finished.) Each story is told with tons of Southern humor and phrasing (which in itself is pretty darn funny.
This is a fabulous book to read when traveling with your spouse. The hubby and I were driving as I was reading this book and it was so funny. I kept reading him sections aloud and it kept us both incredibly entertained.
Overall this book was funny and highly entertaining. It's perfect when you are in the mood for something different and need an emotional pick-me-up. I dare you not to laugh out loud at some of the antics in this book!
This book is definitely not along the lines of what I normally read, but I did enjoy reading it. It is filled with short little snippets from the Sweet Potato Queen's life that will absolutely keep you rolling. I've never read any of her books before. In fact, I've never even actually heard of her, but this book is filled with Southern real-life humor and story telling that absolutely kept me giggling and laughing out loud.
Reading this book is like visiting a comedy club. Each chapter is it's own little series of absolutely hilarious monologues. There are stories that range from the self-denial of the people of Walmart, to the idiocy of alligator hunting (which the Sweet Potato Queen herself participated in), to the Divorce Porch (one of those hubby projects that never did seem to get finished.) Each story is told with tons of Southern humor and phrasing (which in itself is pretty darn funny.
This is a fabulous book to read when traveling with your spouse. The hubby and I were driving as I was reading this book and it was so funny. I kept reading him sections aloud and it kept us both incredibly entertained.
Overall this book was funny and highly entertaining. It's perfect when you are in the mood for something different and need an emotional pick-me-up. I dare you not to laugh out loud at some of the antics in this book!
March 1, 2012
Life. It's your birthday present. Open it up and play with it. Act like you like it. (The One who gave it to you is watching, after all. Don't wanna hurt His feelings.) And if you don't like your life, CHANGE IT. It is all yours.
This Quote came from the Chapter "27" Is The New "39". This one chapter stayed with me for quite a while after I finished reading it. I can be accused of pouting on my birthday. I had a few "Shitty" birthday's over a few years and have never been a huge "Birthday" person. But, there are so many people fighting for One Last Birthday, One last Month, One last year, and here we are being crabby on our birthday, cause why?? We don't "LIKE" birthday's?? Yeah...it got me thinking.
So this year..well TODAY...I will try to be a GOOD 30 year-old, smile, strut my feathers and have a great birthday...If not for my sake, but the sake of those around me!!
Another Chapter (All We Need Is Love And Maybe A Dyson) starts with the line "How do the Dogless do it?" Jill goes on to talk about how the love of a dog (her dog) has saved her at times, and I think she is right. How many times can you come home from a crappy day and there is your pup, staring up at you, saying "Hi Mom...How was your day? Need a kiss?" They truly are a treasure that you never knew you needed, even when they are digging nice big holes in you backyard.
With Chapter names like:
The Holidays: Horrifying Tales of Human Sacrifice
Life In Pig Time
Etiquette For Recessions/Depressions/Inflations
YES...You will be laughing as Jill tells it to you straight, with her signature Southern Flair and as much kindness as she can muster. I loved the hysterical "Nicknames" she gives certain people, (TCBITW), LOVE IT!!
So if you need a GOOD laugh, or you are having a Down Day, Month, Year, and think things can never get better, hey...this book will not only show you that EVERYONE is in the same boat, but that you can laugh about it and things will be ok.
I highly Recommend this book and hope you all enjoy it as much as I did!!
This Quote came from the Chapter "27" Is The New "39". This one chapter stayed with me for quite a while after I finished reading it. I can be accused of pouting on my birthday. I had a few "Shitty" birthday's over a few years and have never been a huge "Birthday" person. But, there are so many people fighting for One Last Birthday, One last Month, One last year, and here we are being crabby on our birthday, cause why?? We don't "LIKE" birthday's?? Yeah...it got me thinking.
So this year..well TODAY...I will try to be a GOOD 30 year-old, smile, strut my feathers and have a great birthday...If not for my sake, but the sake of those around me!!
Another Chapter (All We Need Is Love And Maybe A Dyson) starts with the line "How do the Dogless do it?" Jill goes on to talk about how the love of a dog (her dog) has saved her at times, and I think she is right. How many times can you come home from a crappy day and there is your pup, staring up at you, saying "Hi Mom...How was your day? Need a kiss?" They truly are a treasure that you never knew you needed, even when they are digging nice big holes in you backyard.
With Chapter names like:
The Holidays: Horrifying Tales of Human Sacrifice
Life In Pig Time
Etiquette For Recessions/Depressions/Inflations
YES...You will be laughing as Jill tells it to you straight, with her signature Southern Flair and as much kindness as she can muster. I loved the hysterical "Nicknames" she gives certain people, (TCBITW), LOVE IT!!
So if you need a GOOD laugh, or you are having a Down Day, Month, Year, and think things can never get better, hey...this book will not only show you that EVERYONE is in the same boat, but that you can laugh about it and things will be ok.
I highly Recommend this book and hope you all enjoy it as much as I did!!
April 7, 2012
I have to say that Jill Conner Browne is one of my favorite authors. Her humor has been my entertainment from the very first book she wrote. I could not tell you when I’ve laughed and cried so much while reading a book. She captivates you with her down-to-earth, tell-it-like-it-is humor from the first page to the last.
I have every single one of her books so imagine my delight (jumping up and down here) when I received an email asking me to review her new book. As I said, I have been an avid follower of Jill since her book first appeared in Southern Living Magazine umpteen years ago along with an article about the Sweet Potato Queen’s Parade.
Fat Is the New 30 does not let the reader down. It picks up where any of her previous books leave off, making you laugh from start to finish. Through her words, the author has the unique ability to bring you into her life, holding you confined to your seat as you turn page after page.
By the time you finish the last page and close the book, you feel as though Jill has invited you into her life and confidence; and she just wants to help you through life’s vicissitudes. She teaches us how to survive raising those children (lovely as they might be) from infant to teenager to adulthood with humor and a little denial (well, a LOT of denial) thrown in. Because after all, isn’t that the best way to survive life?
Southerners are going to love this book. And, well, if you’re not a Southerner, you are going to wish you were! So, grab this book, the biggest tiara (and most sparkly) you can find, and a tall glass of Southern style sweet tea (you’ll want to refrain from drinking as not to snort the stuff as you become pomaded from laughter and thus, it WILL come out of places we Southern ladies don’t like to mention) – where was I – oh yeah – grab that tall glass of iced tea and sit and read for a while. You'll be glad you did.
I have every single one of her books so imagine my delight (jumping up and down here) when I received an email asking me to review her new book. As I said, I have been an avid follower of Jill since her book first appeared in Southern Living Magazine umpteen years ago along with an article about the Sweet Potato Queen’s Parade.
Fat Is the New 30 does not let the reader down. It picks up where any of her previous books leave off, making you laugh from start to finish. Through her words, the author has the unique ability to bring you into her life, holding you confined to your seat as you turn page after page.
By the time you finish the last page and close the book, you feel as though Jill has invited you into her life and confidence; and she just wants to help you through life’s vicissitudes. She teaches us how to survive raising those children (lovely as they might be) from infant to teenager to adulthood with humor and a little denial (well, a LOT of denial) thrown in. Because after all, isn’t that the best way to survive life?
Southerners are going to love this book. And, well, if you’re not a Southerner, you are going to wish you were! So, grab this book, the biggest tiara (and most sparkly) you can find, and a tall glass of Southern style sweet tea (you’ll want to refrain from drinking as not to snort the stuff as you become pomaded from laughter and thus, it WILL come out of places we Southern ladies don’t like to mention) – where was I – oh yeah – grab that tall glass of iced tea and sit and read for a while. You'll be glad you did.
May 5, 2012
Not Jill at her best. The last chapter is lovely though. If you haven't read her (and I adore her), start with another one.
March 31, 2012
Jill Conner Browne must be a fun person in real life. That outfit she is sporting on the cover of Fat is the New 30: The Sweet Potato Queens Guide to Coping with (the crappy parts of) Life is way over the top. She is just inviting you to read the book. Daring you to read the book. I read the book, but I will be honest I'm not a huge fan of books like this. It's hard to break out of that fiction mold. But there are definitely some good stories in this book.
My favorite essay has to be, "I Left My Heart..on the Porch, Actually." It's all about what she calls the "Divorce Porch." For three years and counting her husband has been working on the porch in their backyard. But of course it isn't done. It's a work in progress. Well it's more of a death trap. If they ever get divorced the porch will be the reason. Sounds perfectly rational to me. How many of us have projects that we swear we will get to but never do? I did cleaned up my room in December but I left a bag full of papers on the side. My intent was to go through them and shred the unimportant papers. Well it is now April and that bag of papers is still there. So Jill, even though I'm not married, I understand.
When it comes eating and body image, I am on her side.
"The times in my life when I have been thin, I enjoyed it well enough, but trust me, PLENTY of stuff tastes WAY better than being thin feels. For that matter, come to think of it, FEELING FULL FEELS better than being thin does." Pg. 42
I'm not advocating that everyone run out and get fat, but I had to laugh at that statement. Sure I feel great after a workout, but I feel even better when I down some french fries after that workout. Kind of defeats the purpose right? But feeling full does feel really good!!
This book is part of an ongoing series. I've never read the other books, but if I had to guess I think the themes are pretty similar. Embrace who you are and tap into the sassiness that is within all of us.
Rating: Give it a try
Note: I received a copy from Little Bird Publicity in exchange for an honest review.
My favorite essay has to be, "I Left My Heart..on the Porch, Actually." It's all about what she calls the "Divorce Porch." For three years and counting her husband has been working on the porch in their backyard. But of course it isn't done. It's a work in progress. Well it's more of a death trap. If they ever get divorced the porch will be the reason. Sounds perfectly rational to me. How many of us have projects that we swear we will get to but never do? I did cleaned up my room in December but I left a bag full of papers on the side. My intent was to go through them and shred the unimportant papers. Well it is now April and that bag of papers is still there. So Jill, even though I'm not married, I understand.
When it comes eating and body image, I am on her side.
"The times in my life when I have been thin, I enjoyed it well enough, but trust me, PLENTY of stuff tastes WAY better than being thin feels. For that matter, come to think of it, FEELING FULL FEELS better than being thin does." Pg. 42
I'm not advocating that everyone run out and get fat, but I had to laugh at that statement. Sure I feel great after a workout, but I feel even better when I down some french fries after that workout. Kind of defeats the purpose right? But feeling full does feel really good!!
This book is part of an ongoing series. I've never read the other books, but if I had to guess I think the themes are pretty similar. Embrace who you are and tap into the sassiness that is within all of us.
Rating: Give it a try
Note: I received a copy from Little Bird Publicity in exchange for an honest review.
April 17, 2012
MY THOUGHTS
ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT
This was the right book at the right time. I have never laughed so much at the images described in this book. I also haven't cried over a dog story like this either. My book group has read her books in the past and I hadn't revisited them in a long time. No matter if you have read her work before or not, this book of easy to read essays will have you craving more just like potato chips. I read this in one night and will have to go dig out my other books to reread again.
I adored the little "Southernisms" sprinkled through out the book. I finally got one term "Bless Your Heart" cleared up here. This can be very derogatory, especially the inflections given to each syllable. Not being from the South, nor ever lived there, I never really understood this phrase. I do now. It can pretty much mean "you are a moron." But I don't want to get ugly. Another wonderful turn of phrase that again sums up a plethora of feelings and also is a four letter word that you could actually use.
Even though this is a lighthearted read, there are some serious issues raised. Conner Browne honestly discusses the loss of her mother with dignity and humor. Sometimes the only way to deal with loss like this is through seeing something funny in a dire situation. I applaud her ability to let the public know what she had to deal with. Oh, and to read her words about how she has weight issues was another touching point. The use of denying everything is something I will always remember! There are lots of empowering words within her jests.
ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT
This was the right book at the right time. I have never laughed so much at the images described in this book. I also haven't cried over a dog story like this either. My book group has read her books in the past and I hadn't revisited them in a long time. No matter if you have read her work before or not, this book of easy to read essays will have you craving more just like potato chips. I read this in one night and will have to go dig out my other books to reread again.
I adored the little "Southernisms" sprinkled through out the book. I finally got one term "Bless Your Heart" cleared up here. This can be very derogatory, especially the inflections given to each syllable. Not being from the South, nor ever lived there, I never really understood this phrase. I do now. It can pretty much mean "you are a moron." But I don't want to get ugly. Another wonderful turn of phrase that again sums up a plethora of feelings and also is a four letter word that you could actually use.
Even though this is a lighthearted read, there are some serious issues raised. Conner Browne honestly discusses the loss of her mother with dignity and humor. Sometimes the only way to deal with loss like this is through seeing something funny in a dire situation. I applaud her ability to let the public know what she had to deal with. Oh, and to read her words about how she has weight issues was another touching point. The use of denying everything is something I will always remember! There are lots of empowering words within her jests.
March 29, 2012
If you’re a fanatic fan of Ms. Browne or you’ve never ever read her it matters not one bit you will if you are fan, enlarge your fandom and if you’ve never read her become an instant fan. In fact if you don’t erupt in laughter by the tenth page and have tears running down your face by the 30th, you’re either not human, there is absolutely no hope for you and are utterly unredeemable.
Now for the rest of you pay attention because her Highness Queen Jill herself has the undisputed end all cure for coping with life, love and the pursuit thereof and here is just a tease of what you’ll find between the covers of my spittle and tear stained copy.
1st Denial
2nd Get a Dog
3rd Laugh at your embarrassing moments
4th (my favorite) Vengeance
5th Diversion
Want more buy the book, if you know someone in need of a good cheering up buy the book as a gift, believe me no one capable of laughter in any form will get through the chapter on “gator hunting” without roaring and rolling on the floor and if they do then by the time they read the chapter about the “bus” will definitely do them in.
Now if none of this interests you or makes you run to your nearest bookstore you may return to the mother ship anytime because no Zippity Doo Dah® at all will help you.
My Queen Ms. Browne I am performing the best courtesy I know how to honor you for some of the happiest hours I’ve ever spent reading and I look forward to your next installment of wisdom.
Now for the rest of you pay attention because her Highness Queen Jill herself has the undisputed end all cure for coping with life, love and the pursuit thereof and here is just a tease of what you’ll find between the covers of my spittle and tear stained copy.
1st Denial
2nd Get a Dog
3rd Laugh at your embarrassing moments
4th (my favorite) Vengeance
5th Diversion
Want more buy the book, if you know someone in need of a good cheering up buy the book as a gift, believe me no one capable of laughter in any form will get through the chapter on “gator hunting” without roaring and rolling on the floor and if they do then by the time they read the chapter about the “bus” will definitely do them in.
Now if none of this interests you or makes you run to your nearest bookstore you may return to the mother ship anytime because no Zippity Doo Dah® at all will help you.
My Queen Ms. Browne I am performing the best courtesy I know how to honor you for some of the happiest hours I’ve ever spent reading and I look forward to your next installment of wisdom.
April 6, 2012
This was my first experience with the Sweet Potato Queens books. There are several that came before Fat is the New 30. I had seen the books just about everywhere and had heard a lot of good things so I was really excited when I finally got this opportunity to read this book.
Jill Conner Browne had me smiling and at some parts, I was laughing out loud even. While the book is geared towards people a little bit older than me who have had a lot more life experience (children, houses, etc.), I still found a lot to like about this book. I can most definitely see why her books are so popular with so many people.
Being around Browne in real life must be a hoot. She has so many funny stories and gets herself into so many funny situations. The way that she writes really pulls the reader in. You don't feel like you're so much reading than sitting and gabbing with a friend over coffee. I love when books can make you feel that way.
My only real, sort of criticism is that though this book is mostly a stand alone book, Browne makes several references to previous Sweet Potato Queens books and some of the things that you would only know not having read the books. It kind of took me out of the story having not read the book.
Bottom line: This is a very funny book and I am definitely looking forward to reading some more Sweet Potato Queens.
Jill Conner Browne had me smiling and at some parts, I was laughing out loud even. While the book is geared towards people a little bit older than me who have had a lot more life experience (children, houses, etc.), I still found a lot to like about this book. I can most definitely see why her books are so popular with so many people.
Being around Browne in real life must be a hoot. She has so many funny stories and gets herself into so many funny situations. The way that she writes really pulls the reader in. You don't feel like you're so much reading than sitting and gabbing with a friend over coffee. I love when books can make you feel that way.
My only real, sort of criticism is that though this book is mostly a stand alone book, Browne makes several references to previous Sweet Potato Queens books and some of the things that you would only know not having read the books. It kind of took me out of the story having not read the book.
Bottom line: This is a very funny book and I am definitely looking forward to reading some more Sweet Potato Queens.
April 9, 2012
Jill Connor Browne is an entertaining author. The reader will probably not get through half of this book without a chuckle if not a full-out guffaw. She states what she knows in a realistic, unconcerned type of way that will grab the readers' attention. She creates certain situations and offers possible, less embarrassing, solutions to the reader. The titles of the chapters are a riot and will have the reader turning page after page, unable to put the book down.
It seems like it would be impossible to get oneself into as many humorous situations as Jill Connor Browne, but she manages. She also manages to tell about her trials and travails with grace and wit. The reader will love her earthy, real voice pervading the book and how the author truly allows the reader inside her head. Topics vary from raising children to houses to Holidays. The book's topics are more likely understandable and appreciated by adult readers, but even a teenager may appreciate the situations. here is certainly something in this book for everyone! Even if this is not a book you would typically pick up, this one is worth a second glance and recommended to adults.
It seems like it would be impossible to get oneself into as many humorous situations as Jill Connor Browne, but she manages. She also manages to tell about her trials and travails with grace and wit. The reader will love her earthy, real voice pervading the book and how the author truly allows the reader inside her head. Topics vary from raising children to houses to Holidays. The book's topics are more likely understandable and appreciated by adult readers, but even a teenager may appreciate the situations. here is certainly something in this book for everyone! Even if this is not a book you would typically pick up, this one is worth a second glance and recommended to adults.
October 12, 2014
Okay, I realize that this is the tenth book for this writer and what I think or say really means very little. But I review on here simply for myself so here we go. Couldn't take it. I just couldn't. I get the "southern girl, gaudy, accept me as I am cuz I'll bake you a pie and talk to you like you're the cutest poodle I've ever seen" but good grief, how exhausting after the 45th page (yeah that's where I decided enough was enough). I kept think this is Paula Deen with no money (which with Ms. Browne's success I doubt this is the case). I know, cruel, right? I don't mean to be. I suppose I am just jealous. I am a white midwestern woman that cant' get away with saying "y'all" or "sweetie" to save my life. Yet, Ms. Browne pulls it off and makes it work. So, kudos to you for being you. And I am so happy you have reached so many others that can relate. But for me, well, call me stuffy or snooty or whatever the case may be but I tried, I really did. But give me a sentence that doesn't have "prolly" for "probably" or "myownself" repeatedly - please. I would like to feel my public education was worth something.
May 15, 2012
Fat is the New 30 is a collection of essays that make fun of all the stupid things we do, or that happen to us, every day. Things like: making gravy with a bit of vinegar in it - no big deal unless you mistake the baking soda for cornstarch and end up with a gravy volcano erupting in the kitchen; or attending a Tupperware party that also happens to include sex toys; or falling asleep at work. There are also travel pointers for the uninitiated - did you know that in Scotland you can't have your cow with you if you get drunk? - and many other tidbits of Southern wisdom to help the reader along her way with a smile on her face and a skip in her step. If laughing at yourself causes you to break out in hives, be sure to avoid this book. The rest of us will love it. OK - we'll love MOST of it. The overuse of Capital Letters did get on MY nerves, just a bit. Otherwise Fat is the New 30 is a winner.
July 24, 2012
I love all of Jill's books and I believe she has outdone herself on this one. I laughed so hard my stomach hurt and then she made me cry and then laugh some more. I will never forget her Dad's solution for unpleasantness--either make it fun or make fun of it--and her Dad's solution for uncomfortable conversations, "let's think about watermelon". Ok, I'm paraphrasing, but this book is absolutely fun, funny and heartwarming and impossible to put down, so buy it today. I loved it so much I now have a Kindle version and an Audible version so that I can listen to it if I'm too lazy to read and I can read it if I want to snuggle up with a good book. Jill reads the book herself on the Audible version and it's pretty close to stand-up comedy in places, so enjoy it! I certainly did.
March 12, 2013
I was hoping I'd get some more laughs out of this book than just a few chuckles here and there, but most of the book was still pretty amusing. One thing I don't always like about the humor genre is that almost nothing is taken as sacred or serious. I think that's what I like so much about the two books I've read by Jill Conner Browne; they're really funny but not so funny that she feels the need to cover up every single thing in life with humor and never take a single break from sarcasm (I'm not a fan of constant sarcasm). What made this a four instead of a three star book for me was the inclusion of the final chapter in which Ms. Browne recounts her mother's final months. Not many laughs to be had there but plenty of tears, which was especially the case for me since I listened to the audiobook, which is read by the author. I like that she was open and willing to detail a painful situation; it gives much more depth to the book than you would get with a typical humor memoir...I don't know...maybe I just haven't read enough in this genre, and there are plenty more humorous memoirs with heart; I just haven't come across them yet.
Oh and if I remember, I may veganize some of the simple and crowd-pleasing recipes in this book. Although, even veganized, I think I would barf from the sheer fat content in most all of them.
Oh and if I remember, I may veganize some of the simple and crowd-pleasing recipes in this book. Although, even veganized, I think I would barf from the sheer fat content in most all of them.
September 25, 2012
I picked up Fat Is The New 30 when I found myself in a foul mood and couldn't wrestle myself out. I'd first tried to read inspirational-type books - you know the ones: positive thinking, putting things in perspective, etc. The result: NOT good. Somehow 'foul mood' became 'crazy b*t*h' as I found myself yelling at the narrators, giving them my suggestions on where to put their purile advice and upbeat slogans. (Audio books give you this advantage!). Therefore, I had every intention of hating this book today, too, Within five minutes I was amused - in short time, laughing out loud. Ms. Browne also talks of "denial" in addition to "experience, strength and hope", ...only differently. My message today seemed to be "lighten the hell up, why don't you!", The fact that the author narrated the book herself enhanced enjoyment of it for me. A funny and poignant book, her last sentence packed a punch I wasn't prepared for. I'll be forever grateful to Ms. Browne for that reminder.
January 28, 2016
Sweet Potato Queens books have been a wonderful reprieve from serious reading ever since 2001. Read the Sweet Potato Queens Book of Love first before you read any others.
This book has very little to do with the "crappy parts of life" except for the last chapter where Jill Conner Browne is the caregiver to her dying mother for the last 4 months of her life.It's the most powerful and honest writing you will encounter.
Otherwise, the chapters are about holidays, birthdays, the usual recipes, her "big ass bus" they take on book tours, and some of her various health issues. Everything is amusing and clever, if not fast paced. Conner Browne makes the most of her southerness and what it means to be "ugly" or why you want a "divorce porch."
Dip in for a good time.
This book has very little to do with the "crappy parts of life" except for the last chapter where Jill Conner Browne is the caregiver to her dying mother for the last 4 months of her life.It's the most powerful and honest writing you will encounter.
Otherwise, the chapters are about holidays, birthdays, the usual recipes, her "big ass bus" they take on book tours, and some of her various health issues. Everything is amusing and clever, if not fast paced. Conner Browne makes the most of her southerness and what it means to be "ugly" or why you want a "divorce porch."
Dip in for a good time.
April 22, 2012
This is without a doubt one of the funniest books I've ever read. Tears were running down my cheeks from laughing out loud. Browne is hysterically funny. You think I've made my point yet? Descriptions of her father and mother and her life as a devout Southerner are the best. And the end with the sharing of the death of her mother had me crying also (not funny but so very touching) - she's right on about a lot of events in a person's life. Christmas, Thanksgiving and rearing of children and the the expression of love for animals, well dogs and cats are - shall I say it again funny!
June 2, 2012
As always, an SPQ book is good for what ails ya. I laughed, and yes, I cried. Sometimes from laughing so hard, and at the end, from feeling the grief that Ms. Browne has felt at the loss of her dear mama.
I've read every book in this series, and I highly recommend them. There just really isn't anything else I can say other than read them for yourself. Funny, touching, thought-provoking, and always filled with at least one mouth-watering recipe.
In fact, now that I think about it, I find myself wanting something sweet. And something salty. And just generally yummy. Thanks Jill!
I've read every book in this series, and I highly recommend them. There just really isn't anything else I can say other than read them for yourself. Funny, touching, thought-provoking, and always filled with at least one mouth-watering recipe.
In fact, now that I think about it, I find myself wanting something sweet. And something salty. And just generally yummy. Thanks Jill!
June 27, 2012
I love, love, love these books. I've been reading Jill Conner Browne's hilarious work since I was in high school and I just connect with them more and more the longer I live in the south and the older I get.
One of my professors in college grew up with Jill and told me I reminded him of her because I have the same sense of humor. Every time I read one of her books, all I can think is that maybe someday I'll be that funny.
One of my professors in college grew up with Jill and told me I reminded him of her because I have the same sense of humor. Every time I read one of her books, all I can think is that maybe someday I'll be that funny.
June 23, 2012
Thoroughly enjoyed this; didn't want it to end. I had tears in my eyes from both laughter and sadness at different points in the book, and look forward to her next installment of the Sweet Potato Queens' Guides.
November 19, 2014
I think the Sweet Potato Queen books are something you are either going to love or hate. The humor is bawdy and irreverent. Jill Conner Browne is someone who enjoys life and laughing with it- rather than at it. The books come with recipes too!
June 5, 2012
All the Sweet Potato Queen books are wonderful and this one may be the best . I'm still laughing. I highly recommend JCB's humor as an antidote to whatever is buggin' ya.
June 25, 2012
This book was hysterical! I can just hear her southern drawl! If you need a laugh (and who doesn't), pick up this quick read. If you've spent any time in the South, you'll relate!
February 14, 2017
So hilariously funny! To really do this author justice, you really have to do the audio versions. It is worth every moment!!
November 4, 2017
Just good fun and a delight to read about real people!
August 6, 2018
I loved the first Sweet Potato Queens book. The second was a little less funny; the third one even less. This is the 6th or 7th. You do the math!
November 23, 2025
3.5 - Cute southern humor. Yes, some pages were more humorous that others, but reading this was still better than being "hit in the face with a wet squirrel"! LOL. But my favorite line was a reflective one; "What if, when you woke up in the morning, all you had left was what you had thanked God for the night before?".
July 6, 2020
I started this last summer and then stopped reading so I could read something that was due. Picked it back up this summer, it was my pool book since I got water on it last summer. I’m glad I didn’t finish it last year, going through a divorce and still reeling from dad’s death, there is no way I would have made it through that last part.
March 30, 2012
Quite a comedic book that made for a great break from the novels that I had been reading. With a theme throughout this book as to how to get through painful times, each chapter was different and unique. I enjoyed reading a chapter on its own and being able to easily put down and pick the book up again.
I am not sure that my age group is the exact audience, but I think we younger gals can enjoy and appreciate the humor in this book. I think this a book for our mothers to enjoy. I would also think this book would be a better read for those in the Southern half of the United States or who wish to return to the South!
Although this was my first experience with The Sweet Potato Queens, I would definitely read another in the future. Unfortunately in this book there were some inside jokes that I didn't quite get, so I would definitely start back at the beginning and enjoy the series in order.
I am not sure that my age group is the exact audience, but I think we younger gals can enjoy and appreciate the humor in this book. I think this a book for our mothers to enjoy. I would also think this book would be a better read for those in the Southern half of the United States or who wish to return to the South!
Although this was my first experience with The Sweet Potato Queens, I would definitely read another in the future. Unfortunately in this book there were some inside jokes that I didn't quite get, so I would definitely start back at the beginning and enjoy the series in order.
October 27, 2015
Pro-tip - get the audiobook. Kindle book + Whispersync. I'm blessed with southern kin, so always heard the drawl when reading the SPQ books, but the audiobook with Jill Conner Browne's very own voice is just that much more perfect.
Yes - it's more southern attitude from a bright, funny, compassionate woman. She's older and wider now, and facing life's challenges with humor, insight, and more than one F-bomb.
I'll admit here that I didn't finish all the chapters. I will. Somewhen. But not now. My belle-mere crossed over last night so, listening to her talk about her momma's final days - nope. Just nope. Listening to the book & knowing I won't hear our own sweet southern belle again - that was poignant enough, thanks.
So this is a feel great book. I recommend it a lot!
Yes - it's more southern attitude from a bright, funny, compassionate woman. She's older and wider now, and facing life's challenges with humor, insight, and more than one F-bomb.
I'll admit here that I didn't finish all the chapters. I will. Somewhen. But not now. My belle-mere crossed over last night so, listening to her talk about her momma's final days - nope. Just nope. Listening to the book & knowing I won't hear our own sweet southern belle again - that was poignant enough, thanks.
So this is a feel great book. I recommend it a lot!
October 28, 2013
I've read several SPQ books and I'd give the 1st 5 stars and the others 4 just for entertainment value, but this one I'm giving a 5 for one reason only and it's for the saddest chapter in the book. In this book Jill Conner Brown talks about caring for her mother at the end. She's known for her sarcastic remarks and irreverent humour and I love her for that (she'd be my best friend if we lived in the same small town), but the love and the care and the concern in this chapter over her mother's well-being at the end is something you just don't see or hear of often enough. And it got me thinking. I finally had my own discussion with my own mother as to what she wanted in the end. It's a good book that can get that talk going.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews